Sleeping Problems During Pregnancy

Pregnancy brings pleasure and excitement for the woman. It is the most awaited moment in every woman’s life. However, it also brings some problems like nausea & vomiting, itching, fatigue and sleeping problems. Various changes take place in the body during the pregnancy. They make difficult for a pregnant woman to sleep comfortably.

Some of the physical and mental conditions causing the sleep disturbances are cramps in legs, awareness of heartbeats and shortness of breath, frequent urination, backache, nightmares, nervousness and fear about the delivery and worries about the baby.

The increasing size of the fetus is the most important reason for the sleep problems during pregnancy. Shifting around in the bed becomes very difficult due to increased size of belly. The woman experiences the frequent urge of urination. Increasing size of uterus put pressure on the bladder. It results in frequent urination during day and night. It causes sleep disturbances.

The heart rate increases during pregnancy to increase the blood supply to the uterus. The awareness of increased heart beats causes the disturbance in sleep. Due to enlargement of uterus, there is pressure against the diaphragm. It causes difficulty in breathing. The pregnant woman needs to breathe faster and more deeply due to increased oxygen needs.

The cramps in the leg and backache are caused due to the extra weight during pregnancy. They cause the sleep problems. Many women complain the heartburn. It occurs when the stomach contents come back into the esophagus. During pregnancy, the function of entire digestive system slows down. The food remains in the stomach and intestine for longer time. It results in heartburn or constipation.

The best resting position for a pregnant woman is to lie on the side with the knees bent. It makes the heart’s function easier. If you have pain in lower back, apply extra pillows when lying down, one under the abdomen, one behind the back, one between the legs and one under the head.

It is very essential for a pregnant woman to stay relaxed and in a joyful mood. It is advised to join the antenatal classes to keep away the fear about delivery. Read a good book, listen to pleasant music. Avoid the caffeinated drinks like soda, tea or coffee. Find the comfortable position for sleeping. It will help you to have a peaceful sleep.

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